12 Safety Tips

Lets face it, as motorbike riders we are more vulnerable than most other vehicles on the road. We need to take extra care to keep the rubber side down.

Here are the things I try to do to keep safe on the road.

#1: Expect the Unexpected!
You never know what can happen on the road. A cat can jump out at you (reminds me of this video), a car can run a red light, or a vehicle can be broken down on a blind corner. Always be on guard, and never get to relaxed or comfortable.

#2: Keep your Distance
The more distance there is between you and vehicle in front of you, the more time you will have to respond to any problems. Try to keep a distance of about 4 seconds. When a vehicle passes something like a road sign, count how many seconds it takes you to pass the same marker to determine how far you are away from them.

#3: Blind Spots and Staying Visible
Stay out of blind spots! A lot of drivers don't even check them. The messages on the back of trucks ring true - "if you can't see my mirrors, I can't see you" (if they look that is). Consider getting reflectors for your motorbike or gear.

#4: Lane Positioning
Position yourself so you have more time to respond to hazards and more distance between you and the crummy drivers! The QLD motorbike safety website has some good information on this.

#5: Scanning
You need as much information as you can get about the environment around you to better identify and respond to hazards. Consider what's in front of you on the road, check your blind spots, check your mirrors, check for merging traffic, lookout for cars reversing out of driveways, look at everything between you and the horizon. (handy tip: if there's a car in front of you, try to look through the windscreen to better see what's in front of it).

#6: Look through Corners
Looking through corners improves your vision and somehow improves cornering. Keep your head up and use your peripheral vision. Just do it!

#7: Gear
Don't skimp out on gear. Try to go for leathers. Get a full-face helmet. Ensure your protected from head to toe. It's a little awkward if your not wearing it all in a crash.

#8: Practice your Riding Skills
Here and there practice your emergency stops, slow riding, and everything else to better prepare yourself for complicated events.

#9: Maintain your Bike
Keep your ride in good nick. The QLD motorbike safety website has some good guidelines.

#10: Fatigue, Alcohol, Drugs
Don't drive if your knackered. Drugs and alcohol while riding is bad mmmmkay.

#11: Ride to the Conditions
If it's icy, wet, or frosty, be careful on the corners and don't accelerate to hard. Take care if the sun is shining in your eyes (consider getting a tinted helmet visor). Keep extra distance between vehicles in foggy conditions. If it's hailing, GTFO!

#12: Confidence and Humility
Put aside the ego and swallow your pride, especially when riding with other riders. Don't get cocky. Having said that, have confidence in your ability and have fun while your riding!